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Matt Albers talks about his struggles

The pitcher's mound had to be a lonely place for Matt Albers in the top of the 13th inning on Sunday. Not only did he let in some inherited runs, but he gave up five of his own over just one inning.

Earlier this year, Albers had a stretch where he did not allow an earned run in 17 of 21 appearances. His ERA was 2.12 during the stretch.

But now he has been hit for 17ER over six innings over his last seven appearances.

"I had a good talk with Rick Kranitz and went over a few things," Albers said. "You know mechanically and mentally I've just tried to make up for a few bad outings instead of just moving forward and doing the things that made me successful earlier. I'm trying to do those and stay as confident as I can.

"It's a little bit mechanics and little bit mentally just trying to do too much instead of being relaxed. Just got to get back to making pitches and having confidence. That's all I can really do."

Alber admits this current stretch has certainly tested his confidence.

"This is a humbling game. If you think you have it figured out, you can get it handed to you real quick. So, just try to get back on a roll and the feeling I had when I was doing well and keep battling.

"My sinker has not been sinking that well, it's been staying flat and straight. That's one thing I need to work on."

Albers is 2-4, 5.85 in 42 games, all in relief. Right-handed batters have hit .288 off him and lefties are batting .352 vs. Albers.